Bangkok: The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has set a deadline of December 3 to conclude its investigation into the 18 bosses of The Icon Group Co., Ltd., with the first batch of findings to be sent to prosecutors. Pol. Lt. Col. Suravut Rangsai, DSI spokesman and Director of the Division of Cases Relating to Bidding to State Agencies, addressed the media outside Bangkok Special Prison, where a team was set to interrogate the 11 male bosses of The Icon.
According to Thai News Agency, the interrogation is based on unresolved issues identified during a meeting on November 15. Despite the suspects having given 48 hours of testimony previously, further investigation is required concerning charges under the Computer Act, fraud against the public, the Emergency Decree on Loans, and the Direct Sales Act. The DSI aims to uncover additional facts through further questioning while maintaining the suspects’ rights to withhold statements.
Pol. Lt. Col. Suravut noted that an extension of the document submissio
n period for The Icon’s 18 bosses has been granted until December 3. This extension is intended to provide sufficient time for the accused to gather evidence to prove their innocence. Following this deadline, any additional information must be submitted directly to the public prosecutor.
The DSI has conducted two rounds of interrogations with the 18 bosses, who continue to deny all accusations. The repeated questioning arises from lingering suspicions that investigators wish to clarify, as obtaining statements could be beneficial in court. Nonetheless, refusal to provide statements does not impact the case file.
Regarding a separate investigation involving Boss Paul and an alleged 10 million baht payment, another group of investigators is scheduled to question him. The inquiry follows Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong’s directive to establish a fact-finding committee to ensure transparency and the inclusion of neutral parties in the investigation.
Pol. Lt. Col. Suravut addressed the examination of an audio clip lin
ked to Ms. Krisanong, confirming its authenticity but clarifying that it pertains to a conversation from a decade ago. The DSI has forwarded the clip for further analysis to assess any reputational damage. The agency maintains a stance of transparency and readiness for scrutiny.
In addition, Pol. Lt. Col. Suravut discussed the freezing of bank accounts related to The Icon case, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution. The DSI plans to meet with police officers to address the situation and ensure that only accounts genuinely linked to the crime remain frozen, while others are promptly unfrozen.
Regarding the ongoing detention of the accused, the DSI intends to maintain its objection to bail through the 7th detention period, as the case holds significant public interest. The decision aligns with existing police actions and underscores the wide-reaching impact of the investigation.